Ferrari will see the light again in the pits

Ferrari team confirmed that it was about to implement a new pit lane light system during pit stops. It made an adjustment for the Japanese GP by bringing back the traditional ‘lollipop man’.

The Scuderia had decided to use a more traditional system for the last three races of 2008 after an electronic system failure in the pits at the Singapore Grand Prix during Felipe Massa’s refueling. His refueling hose was still attached to his car.

This blunder cost the Brazilian valuable points as he fought tooth and nail against Lewis Hamilton for the championship win. As everyone knows, it was the Briton who emerged victorious by one point.

At the time, Ferrari maintained faith in the electronic system more than in the lollipop, but felt it would be better for the pit crew to return to a more traditional setup.

Since the end of the season, Ferrari has conducted a comprehensive analysis of what was wrong with its refueling system. After software changes, the team is now confident in avoiding system failures.

A Ferrari spokesperson said: « We can confirm that our plan is to use a new system during pit stops. We will quickly test the modifications. »

Ferrari team manager Luca Baldisserri, on the other hand, told the Italian newspaper La Stampa that the team was convinced it had eliminated all the issues with its refueling lights.

« We analyzed the mistakes made in 2008 and improved the system. An electronic program will prevent the car from starting while the refueling hose is still in place. »